Brrrriiiinnng! Brrrriiinnnng!
Sabrina picked up the telephone. "Hello?"
-Hi. This is Pam from Saffron General Hospital. This is Sabrina, correct? -
"Yes." Sabrina replied. She started to worry.
-I'm terribly sorry but both your parents were pronounced dead upon arrival this after noon. -
Sabrina dropped the phone.
-Hello?.Hello? -
She ran up the stairs pass Vynan and Mikial's room and into her own. She threw herself on the bed and began to cry. Mikial peeked in the doorway, but he decided to leave her alone.
$$$$$
Twooooooooooo! AH! Please. get Sycamore.
I stared at her for a moment. The look of pain on her face was unbearable. I called out to the scientist. He was there in only a few minutes along with a few others. They all looked as though they'd been asleep but were awake in only a few moments. They started scurrying about and soon they had hauled her off. They left me no other choice but to pace in the now empty room and wonder. Thankfully, the one called Sycamore came back after what seemed like hours. He invited me to come watch. I was confined to a small room with a window. Beyond the window the scientists were hurrying here and there, hooking up strange, but familiar, machines and checking cords. Poor Sheba looked very distressed.
$$$$$
"Avalon?" I called though the door. He was still turning himself into Tanya.
"Yeah."
"If you don't mind, I'd like to go check on Sabrina. I have a really bad feeling something is wrong."
"Oh, you go ahead. I've got some snooping I'd like to do and it would definitely be easier for just one person. I see you tonight then, right?"
"Yeah, unless something has happened. I let you know, okay?"
"All right. Have fun."
"Don't tell my dad."
"You know I won't."
$$$$$
Sabrina woke up to the smell of cinnamon waffles. She sniffed a couple times and blew her nose. She heard the door open. Mikial set a breakfast tray on her nightstand. He sat on the bed.
"What's going on?" He asked gently.
She sniffed again and took a breath. "My parents are dead." She started to cry again. Mikial looked away.
"I'm sorry." He said.
She looked at the tray of food on the stand. "Thank you for making breakfast. but I'm not hungry."
He half smiled. "I knew you were going to say that, but I figured I'd make it anyway."
She turned toward the window. "It's the thought that counts."
"You wish Mark were here."
She nodded. "You wouldn't mind taking over the gym for a while, would you?"
Mikial was dumbfounded. "What?"
"You heard me."
"But. Vynan. he has my pokemon. I mean, our pokemon."
"Use mine."
$$$$$
"Uhhhhhh." I rolled over. Everything pulsed with pain. Where was I now? I opened my eyes. or did I? It was so dark. and cold. what is this sticky stuff on the ground? Somehow I managed to sit up. This pain was way too intense to even think of ignoring. There was no use trying to heal myself. I'd only be more exhausted than I already was. That wouldn't do. Now about this sticky junk.
Sniff.
"Hmmmm."
I tasted it.
"Yep. it's blood. and probably mine."
I staggered to my feet and used a wall for support. The wall was obviously stone since the surface was smooth and the pattern of the cement cracks was irregular. The floor was likewise. Must be some type of holding cell. I moved slowly. Just walking seemed like a work out.
Do I see a light ahead?
I tried to go faster, but I ended up tripping. The thud I made echoed around for several moments. I tried to pick myself up again, but I was just too weak. Now I was struggling for air. My own weight was crushing me.
Crrreeeeeeeeeeeeeeek.
A door opened somewhere. Footsteps echoed nearby. they stopped.
"Still alive I see?" It was Redwood.
"What do you want?" I gasped.
"I have some food and water for you. unless you don't want it."
....
He dropped something on my back. It made me jump and gasp. I listened as he walked away and the door slammed shut. I rolled over so the stuff fell off of my back. Three slices of moldy bread and a small bottle of water. One of the pieces of bread was already soaked in blood. I ate it anyway. It was better than nothing. The water was another story, though. It was nearly impossible to open.
"Condemn plastic!" I yelled and took the cap in my teeth. After 20 minutes of grappling with the bottle did it finally open. I drank the whole thing in one breath.
After that fiasco I felt I was going to faint. All that had taken too much energy. I lay there, in a puddle of blood, and waited. I wasn't sure for what. Death maybe? Or would someone rescue me?
$$$$$
Knock.knock. Ding Dong!
Mikial answered the door. He was surprised to see Mark standing on the doorstep.
"Mark? What are you doing here?"
Mark came inside. "I escaped I guess." He smirked. "Where's Sabrina?"
"Upstairs." His face fell.
Mark puzzled. "What's wrong?"
"She found out, yesterday, that her parents died."
Mark stared at him then went for the stairs. He went to Sabrina's room and quietly opened the door. She was lying on the bed with her back toward the door.
"Mikial. please, just leave me be."
Mark went inside and closed the door. He sat on the edge of the bed and touched her back.
"Mikial." She rolled over. "MARK!" She threw her arms around him and started crying.
"I heard what happened." He said, stroking her hair.
$$$$$
Avalon was poking around in one of the DR's basement floors. Unlike the Rocket HQ, the DR was mostly above ground having only two basement floors.
He made a ball of light energy in his hand and used it for a flashlight. He'd always hated relying on batteries. It seemed they always gave out on you when you needed them most, and who knew what could happen down here? This floor looked as though it hadn't been used for some time.
He came to some dusty object that looked as though it may have been an old computer. He found a switch and flicked it on. Something buzzed but nothing else happened.
Continuing on his way, he had the feeling he was being followed. Then again, he always felt like he was being followed, so he brushed it off.
He came to another machine.
"This looks inter- WAAAAHHHHHH!"
CRASH!!!
"Uhm.ufff. Wha? What is this thing?" He looked up. "A trap door?"
He made another ball of light.
"What IS this?" He found himself perched on top of what appeared to be an old meat-processing machine.
"Great. My leg is stuck." He tried to get his leg out, making quite a bit of racket.
"Who's out there?" Came a weary voice.
Avalon stopped.
"H-hello? Is someone there?"
"Where are you? Show yourself." He called back.
"I. I can't. I'm confined." The voice was getting weaker.
"Who are you?"
"My. my name is. is."
There was a thump.
"Hey! Are you all right?"
Silence.
Weird. he must have passed out or something.
He tried getting his leg out again.
"Dammit! I'm bleeding and this stupid thing is all rusty." He tried prying open the rusty jaws that held his leg.
He heard a noise and froze.
"Hey! Is that you down there?" He whispered loudly.
No answer.
$$$$$
Where is he? Where is Mewtwo? Sheba screamed. She was frantic.
Sycamore pointed to a window. "See him? He's just beyond that window."
Sheba snorted and her eyes became wild with rage. I want him in here! By my side now! Various objects whizzed around the room knocking out some of the other scientists. Sycamore dodged a flying tray.
"Okay! Please stop this madness and I'll go get him!" He went for the door vaulting over toppled carts and dodging flying syringes. He was pretty nimble for an old man.
He exploded into Mewtwo's viewing room. "Come with me, and calm her down." He nearly grabbed Mewtwo's arm and dragged him into the room.
Once Mewtwo was at her side she calmed down and the room put itself back together. She seized Mewtwo's hand and refused to let go. She was squeezing his hand so tight her knuckles were white. Sycamore swore he could hear Mewtwo's fingers breaking. Mewtwo's eyes looked as though they were going to pop out of his head.
One of the machines started beeping rapidly. A sure sign something was wrong. Sheba's hold on Mewtwo's hand became steadily stronger. Mewtwo became alarmed.
What is happening?
"The strain is too much for her! All of her muscles are tightening beyond control. She's going to suffocate! And her heart has stopped!"
Sheba choked and her eyes rolled back into her head. Mewtwo stared; his eyes twitching. He didn't like how her eyes were still open and showing only the bloodshot whites.
Sycamore scrambled all around the room. He threw open the doors of a nearby cabinet and threw its contents over his shoulders until he found what he was seeking: muscle relaxers.
"I hope this works." He said filling a syringe.
$$$$$
I sighed. Sabrina had fallen asleep. All that crying must have worn her out. How could one person cry so much anyway? My shirt was soaked. I gently laid her on the bed and took my shirt off. My stomach growled. I hadn't eaten for a whole day. There were waffles on the nightstand, cold and untouched. I ate all of them. I hope she didn't mind.
I went down stairs to the kitchen to get something to drink. Mikial was at the table staring off into space and looking miserable. I glanced over at him and went to the fridge. I got a soda pop and sat down across from him. He looked like he hadn't had a wink of sleep for days.
"Hey, Kial."
He startled and looked around, quite confused. Then he saw me.
"Oh. I thought you were Vynan. only Vynan calls me that."
"Sorry."
"No, you call me that if you want to. It just surprised me, that's all."
"You miss him, huh?"
He nodded. "I'm startin to wonder if it was me that made him go away."
"I doubt it."
He gave me a curious glare. "Did he say something to you?"
I took a swig of my pop. "Like what?"
"I dunno." He shrugged his shoulders.
$$$$$
Exhausted and sweating, Avalon finally gave up trying to pull his leg out himself.
"Hey! Is anybody down here?" He called out in his "Tanya" voice. He sighed heavily and dropped his shoulders dramatically when he didn't get an answer.
"Great. Now what am I gonna do?"
"Hey. you're still there?"
"Heck I am. I'm kinda stuck if you know what I mean."
"Well. you're in good company."
"Who are you?"
"My name. is Vynianan. just call me Vynan. Who're you?"
"I can't tell you my name, but you can call me Black Jack."
"I thought I heard a woman down here. not too long ago."
Avalon chuckled. "I think you were hallucinating. Where are you?"
"I don't know. some cell I suppose. and it's real dark. and cold." He started coughing.
"You don't sound so well. Why are you down here anyway?"
"This is where they put me. they think I'm some Avyrian Onan guy. waiting for me to suddenly gain these awesome powers and break out of here I guess. Mikial's probably worried sick about me being gone so long. I wonder if they told Mark yet. nah they probably haven't got a hold of him yet. Hey. where am I anyway? Is this Team Rocket?"
Avalon wasn't really paying attention to the babbling of Vynan's voice. But the mentioning of Mark and Team Rocket caught his attention. "What was that? About Team Rocket?"
"Is this place Team Rocket?"
"No, this is the Dragon Riders HQ. They're a rival of Team Rocket's."
"Oh. I see. are you a Dragon Rider?"
Avalon wasn't sure how to answer that. Could he risk telling this guy the truth?
"You won't tell any one will you?"
"Not many people round here to tell. those scientists don't believe a word that comes out of my mouth anyway."
Avalon chuckled. "Is that a no?"
"Yeah."
"I'm a spy for Team Rocket."
"Oh. so that's why you're snoopin around down here, huh?"
"Yep."
"You wouldn't happen to know Mark would you? He's Giovanni's son."
Avalon was silent. So, he did know Mark. "I know him all right. He's my partner. How do you know him?"
"I came into Sabrina's gym to win the Marsh badge. They said they were looking for a couple of psychics to help them with some stuff."
"You're a psychic?"
"Yeah. but not real strong."
"Hmmm. I didn't sense any psychic energy down here."
"That's because they. beat me up so bad. hey. I'm gonna pass out again. please. tell Mark where I am."
Avalon heard the man fall. "I will." He whispered.
$$$$$
Thankfully, the muscles relaxers helped. Sheba's heart was beating again after several shocks. Mewtwo wasn't very happy with those things. She wasn't awake though. It was going to be impossible for a natural birth at this rate.
"Mewtwo. I'm going to have to do an operation, if you will."
His tail twitched dangerously.
"It's the only way. Either she and the children die or I can try to save them."
One of Sycamore's aides came up beside him. "Sir, judging by some of the later ultra sounds only one of them will be able to survive." He gave a paper to Sycamore.
Sycamore looked up at the pokemon. He showed him the picture. "Only one of them fully developed."
Mewtwo sighed. Do it.
Sycamore nodded. "You're making a good choice. "
Only two minutes into the operation, Mewtwo passed out and had to be removed by one of the aides. He woke three hours later. An aide gave him a glass of water and told him that Sheba had woken up in the middle of it all causing some complications, but she had passed out again when she figured out what was going on.
Will she make it? He asked.
The aid looked though the window. "It's not likely."
Mewtwo set the glass on the small table and stood up. The aide backed away.
Let me back inside.
The aide didn't hesitate to open the door. Even without his powers, Mewtwo was still terrifying.
He watched as his new children were being pulled from the lifeless body of his mate. One of them was extremely tiny and didn't move at all as the other three did. The largest one was the only one that screamed and cried. Sycamore wrapped this one in a blanket and gave it to one of the aides, who quickly made off with it. The other two were put in an incubator in hopes they would live.
Where is she going? Mewtwo asked watching the door the aid had gone through.
"She's going to make sure its healthy enough to survive on it's own. Outside of an incubator, I mean."
Mewtwo turned his attention to Sheba. Will she live?
$$$$$
Mark and Mikial sat at the table in a comfortable silence.
"Is Sabrina asleep?" Mikial asked.
"Yeah. she cried a whole lot. You look like you could use some sleep yourself."
"Yeah, I know. I haven't been able to. I was gonna go to the store to find some sleeping pills. I figured that's better that booze, you know? I don't need a hang over."
"You're that worried about him?"
"Yeah. I know he's a big guy and all but. he wouldn't hurt anybody no matter how bad they've hurt him. I think he only made himself like that so people would be afraid to hurt him. but his eyes give him away."
I nodded. "I did notice that. Very soft gentle eyes."
Mikial half smiled. "All he is is show. He is really strong, though. He just doesn't use his strength. He's a big friendly giant, ya know?"
Mark? Can you hear me?
Avalon? What's up? Mikial looked around. "Is someone talking to you?"
I nodded.
I got myself in a nice little fix in the basement of the DR. I fell through a trap door or something onto this machine and my leg is stuck. It's really weird. Someone must have turned it on just long enough for it to clamp onto me.
Are you hurt real bad?
I don't know. It's real dark, but it sure hurts a whole lot. I've been down here quite a while trying to get myself free. You wanna get you're butt over here and help me out?
Yeah, I'll be right there.
Mikial watched me attentively.
"It was a friend from Team Rocket. Got himself hurt. I'll be back in a bit."
He watched me leave. "I'll tell Sabrina when she wakes up."
"Thanks."
$$$$$
"Hurry up, Mark." Avalon whispered. He wasn't feeling very well. It was probably from blood loss. Things didn't look too bright. He heard a noise.
"Mark?" At this point he didn't care if he was caught down here.
"Tanya?" Was the response he got. It sounded like Mark. The footsteps became faster and closer. "Where are you?"
"Is that you Mark?"
"Yes, where are you?"
The footsteps were slower but very close. "What the heck? What is this?"
"I'm up here." He made a weak ball of light.
"I see you! I'm coming up!"
Somehow Mark managed to climb up the machine in the extreme darkness.
"Do that light thing again." Mark said.
Avalon made the light. "I can hold it for very long. I'm pretty much spent."
"Okay, you can stop. hang on."
With quite a bit of grunting Mark opened the rusty jaws about 2 inches.
"You're going to have to help me a little."
"I don't know how much help I'll be."
Together they tugged at the jaws and Avalon finally pulled his leg free. Mark helped him get down.
"You're STILL here?"
Mark looked around. "I know that voice."
"Yeah, that guy said he knew you."
"Mark? Do my ears deceive me?"
Avalon held onto me tighter sensing that I was about to bolt. There was no way he could stand on his own. I reconsidered and slowly pulled him along with me.
"Vynan? What happened? And why are you in an old meat locker?"
Avalon let go of me and leaned against the wall. "We gonna be here a while?"
I ignored him.
"I. I don't really know what happened. I was takin a walk in the park. next thing I knew I was in some tank. people telling me I was some Onan guy. then. beating me because I said I wasn't."
"Yeah. he musta passed out like three times while I was down here."
"Mark. please. get me out of here."
I went closer so I could see him through the small barred window. His hair was matted and soaked in blood. I found the handle and a keyhole. The door was locked. There was no way I'd be able to get it open. The door had to be at least a foot thick and it was made of some metal or another.
Vynan saw my hopeless expression and held onto the bars.
"I'm sorry Vynan. I'll have to come back later with more help. Can you hold out for just a few more days?"
"I'll. I'll try."
I touched his hand. so cold. "I'll be back. let's go Avalon."
Avalon put his arm across my shoulder and he navigated us out of the DR HQ without being seen. Having some of our strength back, Avalon teleported us just outside the Rocket HQ. The moment we set foot in the door of the lobby, the woman at the counter called someone from the hospital wing to come get Avalon. Awhile later I went to see how he was doing. Being Avalon, he wasn't even in the bed no matter how much the nursed begged him to at least sit down.
"Broken, and 39 stitches." He said, he almost sounded proud. "And, I know who our spy is." He grinned slyly. "There are only a handful of people who know about the Super Human. There's me, you, my two other buddies, Sycamore, and Sycamore's colleague: Birch. He also goes by Redwood. at the DR anyway."
"But how do you know it's him?"
"Your buddy was babbling about a Redwood when he was out. I knew it had to be him 'cause Birch is the only scientist I know that'll beat the shit out of any guy that doesn't agree with him. He used to beat on Sycamore until one day he fought back. Man, that old man is not what he seems I can tell you that."
$$$$$
Mewtwo stared at Sheba's lifeless body. She'd just been pronounced dead. Sycamore watched from afar. He wanted to help the pokemon, but he didn't know how. He watched as Mewtwo picked up her hand and scowled. He practically knew what was going on inside his head. There was no doubt he was wondering why this had happened. He only hoped that the pokemon didn't turn on him. Without even thinking he went to Mewtwo's side and put his hand on the bony shoulder. Mewtwo turned his head and looked at him.
"I'm so sorry. I wish I could have saved her. and I probably could have if I had the equipment. I hate all of this just as much as you do. believe it or not I'm just as much a slave as you are."
Both of them turned when they heard the door open. It was Mark. In a few moments he was sprinting toward them. He surveyed the scene. Sheba on a table, her stomach half open; Mewtwo looking very grave and not well; and Sycamore looking disappointed and distressed. Mark closed his eyes.
"No."
He snatched up Sheba's hand and closed his eyes tight.
"Mark! Don't do it! That necklace will destroy you!" Sycamore yelled. He backed away when a bright green light exploded from Mark's body and filled the room. Not long after there was a small explosion and the light ceased. Mark was thrown against a wall and slid down until he landed on the ground.
Idiot. I already tried that. wasting his life for nothing.
Sycamore picked him up. "He's. sleeping? But. he should be dead." He shook him.
"Wha?" Mark woke up and held his head. "Uhhhhn. my head. what happened?"
"Amazing." Sycamore looked Mark in the eyes.
Mark blinked. "You're scaring me."
Sycamore put him down. "You tried to bring Sheba back to life, but your necklace disagreed."
Mark rubbed the back of his head and stared at Sheba. "Did the babies live?"
"Three have so far, but it looks like only one will make it."
Mark looked somewhat dazed and went to Mewtwo. "I can't say I feel your pain, but she was a great loss to me to. I'm going to leave now because I'm sure neither of you want to deal with a hysterical teenager. Good luck Sycamore. I don't even want to know what happens when my dad finds out."
$$$$$
Avalon went into the bedroom. Mark was already in his bed. Avalon sat on his own bed and stared at Mark. It was quite unusual for him to just go to bed without waiting for him.
"Mark? Are you awake?"
"Yes, unfortunately." He croaked, apparently he was still crying.
Avalon got his p.j.'s on (a.k.a. just boxers) and sat on Mark's bed. "What's the matter kiddo?"
"Sheba died. Sabrina's parents died. Vynan's about to die. it's too much for me. I'm failing everyone."
Avalon got in bed with Mark. "You're not failing anyone. You can't be everywhere at once and you're only a kid. None of this is your fault. You just do what you can and do it well." He said pulling him close. He wiped away Mark's tears. Mark sniffed and laid his head on Avalon's chest. He knew he was probably giving Avalon the wrong idea, but at this point he didn't care.
Mark jumped when Avalon's cold hand made it's way inside his shirt and touched his back. His shirt suddenly disappeared and reappeared on a chair. Avalon pressed closer to him and stroked his hair. Mark played along. Sabrina was too good for him anyway. He had never been there for her when she needed him most. She was a law-abiding citizen and a thriving Gym leader, not to mention a better psychic than he would ever be. And what was he? The son of the big cohune of Team Rocket, or city scum lower than dirt. Wasn't this what he deserved? Sheba was dead because of him. If he hadn't told Mewtwo his clones were being held at Team Rocket, Mewtwo might still be free and Sheba would still be alive. Because of his friendship with Mikial and Vynan they had stayed in Saffron and now Vynan was practically dead. Why shouldn't his own partner screw him?
$$$$$
They had removed the body. I'd never see her, feel her, or smell her again. Never was I to hear her voice again. All that was left of her were three small, wriggling, and helpless bodies. Only one of which was to live.
He let me hold her. It was a she, I knew. Her skin was so silky and smooth. Her tiny hand grasped my finger, not even fitting halfway around. It was amazing. I had helped create this creature I held in my arms. It was part of me. It was mine. I couldn't help but smile, something I didn't think I could do if I tried. But then, she began to cry. How could such small shrill cries damage one so badly?
Sycamore gave me a bottle full of a warm white liquid; it had a strange rubbery tip. He showed me what it was for by putting it to her mouth. She took hold of it and suckled hungrily.
"There you go." He said softly and left me alone with her.
When she was finished she yawned and snuggled into my arm. Her breathing slowed and she slept soundly in my arms.
$$$$$
I woke to the sound of someone breathing in my ear. I was lying against something warm. Had Mark come back? Mikial said he'd gone to help out his friend.
I slowly got up and opened my eyes. However, it was not Mark in bed with me. no, it was Mikial. Without thinking, I slapped him. He woke with a start.
"What the heck was that for?" He said rather sleepily.
"Are you totally ignorant of what goes on this house?"
"What's that supposed to mean?" He asked rubbing his cheek
"I like Mark, not you. I thought you would have realized that by now and backed off."
Mikial looked elsewhere. "I knew you liked him."
"Then why didn't you leave me alone?" I gritted my teeth getting annoyed.
"Because I thought I could change your mind. He's never here for you anyway. Tell me, what kind of boyfriend is never there for a girl when she needs him?"
I was silent. He WAS right. Mark wasn't here nearly as long as I would have liked. He wasn't even here when I had found out about my parents. I shook my head.
"He would have been here if he could have."
Mikial sighed. "Okay." He left.
$$$$$
I closed my eyes and let myself begin crying again. Avalon stroked my back and ruffled my hair.
"You're crying again." He whispered.
I sniffed.
"It'll all be right in the end."
I wiped my face on his chest. "Maybe if this was a movie. nothing goes the way you want it to in real life, Avi."
I could tell he was smiling. "Nobody has ever called me Avi before." He pulled me on top of him and forced me to look him in the eyes. "Such pain and grief in those beautiful green eyes of yours." He traced my jaw with his hand and brushed my hair back. "I know this isn't a fairy tale. but all is not lost. You can at least still save your friend back at the DR."
"But."
Avalon covered my mouth. "Trust me, Mark."
I nodded.
He took his hand off my mouth, took my chin in his and kissed me. Not just a little "touching of the lips" thing. It was an ACTUAL kiss. Not only was it a passionate kiss, it was diversion to get my pants off.
"Avalon." I breathed when he released. "You said."
He rolled over so he was on top of me. "What did I say?"
"You." I reached up and touched his long black hair. "Nuh.Never mind."
"What are you thinking about? You suddenly got distant there."
I stared up at his dark eyes. "Your hair. it's so much like. Sabrina's." I closed my eyes and turned my head away from him. "I don't deserve her. but. I just can't stop thinking about her."
Avalon sighed and settled his full weight on me. "I know what you mean." He rested his head on my chest and closed his eyes. It was silent for a while. "Your heart is racing."
$$$$$
I sat still and watched her sleep the entire time. When she woke she was hungry again. Sycamore got another bottle. I began to feed her again and Sycamore watched in silence.
Her name is Aiji. I half smiled.
Sycamore jumped. "Wha-what did you say?"
Her name is Aiji. beloved child.
Sycamore smiled. "Beautiful. just. beautiful."
$$$$$
Would he really come back? Could I really trust him? He was a member of Team Rocket after all. No, I can't think like this. Mark had gotten them away from ill-minded people before. his own Team Rocket too. He had practically risked his life doing that. Mark would come for him. (lol! Sorry Vynan, "Wesley" (a.k.a. Mark) is busy with his other princess right now! Hee hee. ever see Princess Bride?)
$$$$$
"Ah. Avi. please! Don't do this."
Avalon looked down at me. "But. but why?"
I started to cry yet again. Why can't anything go right for me? "You. you said you wouldn't touch me. and. well. (gasp, sniff) look at you!"
Avalon sat up and looked about himself, and then closed his eyes and turned away embarrassed. "You. you're right." He crossed his arms and his face turned red with humility. He got off of me and gave me my pants back.
"Forgive me, Mark. I usually remember my promises. in fact, I believe this is the first time I've forgotten." He started shaking and a tear fell from his eye and rolled down his flushed cheek. He drew in a long shaky breath and crawled miserably into his own bed. I heard him hiccup a few times.
"I. I forgive you Avalon. please. don't cry." I quickly put my pants on and stumbled over to his bed.
"I just. couldn't stand that pain in your eyes.(hic). I had to do something. but. I went too far.(hic). I knew the second I got into that bed I shouldn't have. I ignored it. (hic). thank you for stopping me. otherwise. (hic). I would have done something I'd regret later."
I leaned over and hugged him.
"There's something else I need to tell you." He said. "Domino broke up with me the other day."
I let go of him.
"I knew it was bound to happen sooner or later. I was trying not to let it get to me. but I think that's where some of that came from."
$$$$$
Avalon wasn't very talkative the next morning. I was called down to my dad's office bright and early anyway.
"So, Mark, how do you like working with Rowan?"
Geeze, he couldn't have asked a better question. I thought. "It's been. interesting, so far."
"Really?" He sat back in his chair and sipped his wine.
I nodded.
He looked at his computer screen. "It's about time we got rid of Old Birch. He'd been under my suspicions from the get go. Now, about that necklace."
Sabrina picked up the telephone. "Hello?"
-Hi. This is Pam from Saffron General Hospital. This is Sabrina, correct? -
"Yes." Sabrina replied. She started to worry.
-I'm terribly sorry but both your parents were pronounced dead upon arrival this after noon. -
Sabrina dropped the phone.
-Hello?.Hello? -
She ran up the stairs pass Vynan and Mikial's room and into her own. She threw herself on the bed and began to cry. Mikial peeked in the doorway, but he decided to leave her alone.
$$$$$
Twooooooooooo! AH! Please. get Sycamore.
I stared at her for a moment. The look of pain on her face was unbearable. I called out to the scientist. He was there in only a few minutes along with a few others. They all looked as though they'd been asleep but were awake in only a few moments. They started scurrying about and soon they had hauled her off. They left me no other choice but to pace in the now empty room and wonder. Thankfully, the one called Sycamore came back after what seemed like hours. He invited me to come watch. I was confined to a small room with a window. Beyond the window the scientists were hurrying here and there, hooking up strange, but familiar, machines and checking cords. Poor Sheba looked very distressed.
$$$$$
"Avalon?" I called though the door. He was still turning himself into Tanya.
"Yeah."
"If you don't mind, I'd like to go check on Sabrina. I have a really bad feeling something is wrong."
"Oh, you go ahead. I've got some snooping I'd like to do and it would definitely be easier for just one person. I see you tonight then, right?"
"Yeah, unless something has happened. I let you know, okay?"
"All right. Have fun."
"Don't tell my dad."
"You know I won't."
$$$$$
Sabrina woke up to the smell of cinnamon waffles. She sniffed a couple times and blew her nose. She heard the door open. Mikial set a breakfast tray on her nightstand. He sat on the bed.
"What's going on?" He asked gently.
She sniffed again and took a breath. "My parents are dead." She started to cry again. Mikial looked away.
"I'm sorry." He said.
She looked at the tray of food on the stand. "Thank you for making breakfast. but I'm not hungry."
He half smiled. "I knew you were going to say that, but I figured I'd make it anyway."
She turned toward the window. "It's the thought that counts."
"You wish Mark were here."
She nodded. "You wouldn't mind taking over the gym for a while, would you?"
Mikial was dumbfounded. "What?"
"You heard me."
"But. Vynan. he has my pokemon. I mean, our pokemon."
"Use mine."
$$$$$
"Uhhhhhh." I rolled over. Everything pulsed with pain. Where was I now? I opened my eyes. or did I? It was so dark. and cold. what is this sticky stuff on the ground? Somehow I managed to sit up. This pain was way too intense to even think of ignoring. There was no use trying to heal myself. I'd only be more exhausted than I already was. That wouldn't do. Now about this sticky junk.
Sniff.
"Hmmmm."
I tasted it.
"Yep. it's blood. and probably mine."
I staggered to my feet and used a wall for support. The wall was obviously stone since the surface was smooth and the pattern of the cement cracks was irregular. The floor was likewise. Must be some type of holding cell. I moved slowly. Just walking seemed like a work out.
Do I see a light ahead?
I tried to go faster, but I ended up tripping. The thud I made echoed around for several moments. I tried to pick myself up again, but I was just too weak. Now I was struggling for air. My own weight was crushing me.
Crrreeeeeeeeeeeeeeek.
A door opened somewhere. Footsteps echoed nearby. they stopped.
"Still alive I see?" It was Redwood.
"What do you want?" I gasped.
"I have some food and water for you. unless you don't want it."
....
He dropped something on my back. It made me jump and gasp. I listened as he walked away and the door slammed shut. I rolled over so the stuff fell off of my back. Three slices of moldy bread and a small bottle of water. One of the pieces of bread was already soaked in blood. I ate it anyway. It was better than nothing. The water was another story, though. It was nearly impossible to open.
"Condemn plastic!" I yelled and took the cap in my teeth. After 20 minutes of grappling with the bottle did it finally open. I drank the whole thing in one breath.
After that fiasco I felt I was going to faint. All that had taken too much energy. I lay there, in a puddle of blood, and waited. I wasn't sure for what. Death maybe? Or would someone rescue me?
$$$$$
Knock.knock. Ding Dong!
Mikial answered the door. He was surprised to see Mark standing on the doorstep.
"Mark? What are you doing here?"
Mark came inside. "I escaped I guess." He smirked. "Where's Sabrina?"
"Upstairs." His face fell.
Mark puzzled. "What's wrong?"
"She found out, yesterday, that her parents died."
Mark stared at him then went for the stairs. He went to Sabrina's room and quietly opened the door. She was lying on the bed with her back toward the door.
"Mikial. please, just leave me be."
Mark went inside and closed the door. He sat on the edge of the bed and touched her back.
"Mikial." She rolled over. "MARK!" She threw her arms around him and started crying.
"I heard what happened." He said, stroking her hair.
$$$$$
Avalon was poking around in one of the DR's basement floors. Unlike the Rocket HQ, the DR was mostly above ground having only two basement floors.
He made a ball of light energy in his hand and used it for a flashlight. He'd always hated relying on batteries. It seemed they always gave out on you when you needed them most, and who knew what could happen down here? This floor looked as though it hadn't been used for some time.
He came to some dusty object that looked as though it may have been an old computer. He found a switch and flicked it on. Something buzzed but nothing else happened.
Continuing on his way, he had the feeling he was being followed. Then again, he always felt like he was being followed, so he brushed it off.
He came to another machine.
"This looks inter- WAAAAHHHHHH!"
CRASH!!!
"Uhm.ufff. Wha? What is this thing?" He looked up. "A trap door?"
He made another ball of light.
"What IS this?" He found himself perched on top of what appeared to be an old meat-processing machine.
"Great. My leg is stuck." He tried to get his leg out, making quite a bit of racket.
"Who's out there?" Came a weary voice.
Avalon stopped.
"H-hello? Is someone there?"
"Where are you? Show yourself." He called back.
"I. I can't. I'm confined." The voice was getting weaker.
"Who are you?"
"My. my name is. is."
There was a thump.
"Hey! Are you all right?"
Silence.
Weird. he must have passed out or something.
He tried getting his leg out again.
"Dammit! I'm bleeding and this stupid thing is all rusty." He tried prying open the rusty jaws that held his leg.
He heard a noise and froze.
"Hey! Is that you down there?" He whispered loudly.
No answer.
$$$$$
Where is he? Where is Mewtwo? Sheba screamed. She was frantic.
Sycamore pointed to a window. "See him? He's just beyond that window."
Sheba snorted and her eyes became wild with rage. I want him in here! By my side now! Various objects whizzed around the room knocking out some of the other scientists. Sycamore dodged a flying tray.
"Okay! Please stop this madness and I'll go get him!" He went for the door vaulting over toppled carts and dodging flying syringes. He was pretty nimble for an old man.
He exploded into Mewtwo's viewing room. "Come with me, and calm her down." He nearly grabbed Mewtwo's arm and dragged him into the room.
Once Mewtwo was at her side she calmed down and the room put itself back together. She seized Mewtwo's hand and refused to let go. She was squeezing his hand so tight her knuckles were white. Sycamore swore he could hear Mewtwo's fingers breaking. Mewtwo's eyes looked as though they were going to pop out of his head.
One of the machines started beeping rapidly. A sure sign something was wrong. Sheba's hold on Mewtwo's hand became steadily stronger. Mewtwo became alarmed.
What is happening?
"The strain is too much for her! All of her muscles are tightening beyond control. She's going to suffocate! And her heart has stopped!"
Sheba choked and her eyes rolled back into her head. Mewtwo stared; his eyes twitching. He didn't like how her eyes were still open and showing only the bloodshot whites.
Sycamore scrambled all around the room. He threw open the doors of a nearby cabinet and threw its contents over his shoulders until he found what he was seeking: muscle relaxers.
"I hope this works." He said filling a syringe.
$$$$$
I sighed. Sabrina had fallen asleep. All that crying must have worn her out. How could one person cry so much anyway? My shirt was soaked. I gently laid her on the bed and took my shirt off. My stomach growled. I hadn't eaten for a whole day. There were waffles on the nightstand, cold and untouched. I ate all of them. I hope she didn't mind.
I went down stairs to the kitchen to get something to drink. Mikial was at the table staring off into space and looking miserable. I glanced over at him and went to the fridge. I got a soda pop and sat down across from him. He looked like he hadn't had a wink of sleep for days.
"Hey, Kial."
He startled and looked around, quite confused. Then he saw me.
"Oh. I thought you were Vynan. only Vynan calls me that."
"Sorry."
"No, you call me that if you want to. It just surprised me, that's all."
"You miss him, huh?"
He nodded. "I'm startin to wonder if it was me that made him go away."
"I doubt it."
He gave me a curious glare. "Did he say something to you?"
I took a swig of my pop. "Like what?"
"I dunno." He shrugged his shoulders.
$$$$$
Exhausted and sweating, Avalon finally gave up trying to pull his leg out himself.
"Hey! Is anybody down here?" He called out in his "Tanya" voice. He sighed heavily and dropped his shoulders dramatically when he didn't get an answer.
"Great. Now what am I gonna do?"
"Hey. you're still there?"
"Heck I am. I'm kinda stuck if you know what I mean."
"Well. you're in good company."
"Who are you?"
"My name. is Vynianan. just call me Vynan. Who're you?"
"I can't tell you my name, but you can call me Black Jack."
"I thought I heard a woman down here. not too long ago."
Avalon chuckled. "I think you were hallucinating. Where are you?"
"I don't know. some cell I suppose. and it's real dark. and cold." He started coughing.
"You don't sound so well. Why are you down here anyway?"
"This is where they put me. they think I'm some Avyrian Onan guy. waiting for me to suddenly gain these awesome powers and break out of here I guess. Mikial's probably worried sick about me being gone so long. I wonder if they told Mark yet. nah they probably haven't got a hold of him yet. Hey. where am I anyway? Is this Team Rocket?"
Avalon wasn't really paying attention to the babbling of Vynan's voice. But the mentioning of Mark and Team Rocket caught his attention. "What was that? About Team Rocket?"
"Is this place Team Rocket?"
"No, this is the Dragon Riders HQ. They're a rival of Team Rocket's."
"Oh. I see. are you a Dragon Rider?"
Avalon wasn't sure how to answer that. Could he risk telling this guy the truth?
"You won't tell any one will you?"
"Not many people round here to tell. those scientists don't believe a word that comes out of my mouth anyway."
Avalon chuckled. "Is that a no?"
"Yeah."
"I'm a spy for Team Rocket."
"Oh. so that's why you're snoopin around down here, huh?"
"Yep."
"You wouldn't happen to know Mark would you? He's Giovanni's son."
Avalon was silent. So, he did know Mark. "I know him all right. He's my partner. How do you know him?"
"I came into Sabrina's gym to win the Marsh badge. They said they were looking for a couple of psychics to help them with some stuff."
"You're a psychic?"
"Yeah. but not real strong."
"Hmmm. I didn't sense any psychic energy down here."
"That's because they. beat me up so bad. hey. I'm gonna pass out again. please. tell Mark where I am."
Avalon heard the man fall. "I will." He whispered.
$$$$$
Thankfully, the muscles relaxers helped. Sheba's heart was beating again after several shocks. Mewtwo wasn't very happy with those things. She wasn't awake though. It was going to be impossible for a natural birth at this rate.
"Mewtwo. I'm going to have to do an operation, if you will."
His tail twitched dangerously.
"It's the only way. Either she and the children die or I can try to save them."
One of Sycamore's aides came up beside him. "Sir, judging by some of the later ultra sounds only one of them will be able to survive." He gave a paper to Sycamore.
Sycamore looked up at the pokemon. He showed him the picture. "Only one of them fully developed."
Mewtwo sighed. Do it.
Sycamore nodded. "You're making a good choice. "
Only two minutes into the operation, Mewtwo passed out and had to be removed by one of the aides. He woke three hours later. An aide gave him a glass of water and told him that Sheba had woken up in the middle of it all causing some complications, but she had passed out again when she figured out what was going on.
Will she make it? He asked.
The aid looked though the window. "It's not likely."
Mewtwo set the glass on the small table and stood up. The aide backed away.
Let me back inside.
The aide didn't hesitate to open the door. Even without his powers, Mewtwo was still terrifying.
He watched as his new children were being pulled from the lifeless body of his mate. One of them was extremely tiny and didn't move at all as the other three did. The largest one was the only one that screamed and cried. Sycamore wrapped this one in a blanket and gave it to one of the aides, who quickly made off with it. The other two were put in an incubator in hopes they would live.
Where is she going? Mewtwo asked watching the door the aid had gone through.
"She's going to make sure its healthy enough to survive on it's own. Outside of an incubator, I mean."
Mewtwo turned his attention to Sheba. Will she live?
$$$$$
Mark and Mikial sat at the table in a comfortable silence.
"Is Sabrina asleep?" Mikial asked.
"Yeah. she cried a whole lot. You look like you could use some sleep yourself."
"Yeah, I know. I haven't been able to. I was gonna go to the store to find some sleeping pills. I figured that's better that booze, you know? I don't need a hang over."
"You're that worried about him?"
"Yeah. I know he's a big guy and all but. he wouldn't hurt anybody no matter how bad they've hurt him. I think he only made himself like that so people would be afraid to hurt him. but his eyes give him away."
I nodded. "I did notice that. Very soft gentle eyes."
Mikial half smiled. "All he is is show. He is really strong, though. He just doesn't use his strength. He's a big friendly giant, ya know?"
Mark? Can you hear me?
Avalon? What's up? Mikial looked around. "Is someone talking to you?"
I nodded.
I got myself in a nice little fix in the basement of the DR. I fell through a trap door or something onto this machine and my leg is stuck. It's really weird. Someone must have turned it on just long enough for it to clamp onto me.
Are you hurt real bad?
I don't know. It's real dark, but it sure hurts a whole lot. I've been down here quite a while trying to get myself free. You wanna get you're butt over here and help me out?
Yeah, I'll be right there.
Mikial watched me attentively.
"It was a friend from Team Rocket. Got himself hurt. I'll be back in a bit."
He watched me leave. "I'll tell Sabrina when she wakes up."
"Thanks."
$$$$$
"Hurry up, Mark." Avalon whispered. He wasn't feeling very well. It was probably from blood loss. Things didn't look too bright. He heard a noise.
"Mark?" At this point he didn't care if he was caught down here.
"Tanya?" Was the response he got. It sounded like Mark. The footsteps became faster and closer. "Where are you?"
"Is that you Mark?"
"Yes, where are you?"
The footsteps were slower but very close. "What the heck? What is this?"
"I'm up here." He made a weak ball of light.
"I see you! I'm coming up!"
Somehow Mark managed to climb up the machine in the extreme darkness.
"Do that light thing again." Mark said.
Avalon made the light. "I can hold it for very long. I'm pretty much spent."
"Okay, you can stop. hang on."
With quite a bit of grunting Mark opened the rusty jaws about 2 inches.
"You're going to have to help me a little."
"I don't know how much help I'll be."
Together they tugged at the jaws and Avalon finally pulled his leg free. Mark helped him get down.
"You're STILL here?"
Mark looked around. "I know that voice."
"Yeah, that guy said he knew you."
"Mark? Do my ears deceive me?"
Avalon held onto me tighter sensing that I was about to bolt. There was no way he could stand on his own. I reconsidered and slowly pulled him along with me.
"Vynan? What happened? And why are you in an old meat locker?"
Avalon let go of me and leaned against the wall. "We gonna be here a while?"
I ignored him.
"I. I don't really know what happened. I was takin a walk in the park. next thing I knew I was in some tank. people telling me I was some Onan guy. then. beating me because I said I wasn't."
"Yeah. he musta passed out like three times while I was down here."
"Mark. please. get me out of here."
I went closer so I could see him through the small barred window. His hair was matted and soaked in blood. I found the handle and a keyhole. The door was locked. There was no way I'd be able to get it open. The door had to be at least a foot thick and it was made of some metal or another.
Vynan saw my hopeless expression and held onto the bars.
"I'm sorry Vynan. I'll have to come back later with more help. Can you hold out for just a few more days?"
"I'll. I'll try."
I touched his hand. so cold. "I'll be back. let's go Avalon."
Avalon put his arm across my shoulder and he navigated us out of the DR HQ without being seen. Having some of our strength back, Avalon teleported us just outside the Rocket HQ. The moment we set foot in the door of the lobby, the woman at the counter called someone from the hospital wing to come get Avalon. Awhile later I went to see how he was doing. Being Avalon, he wasn't even in the bed no matter how much the nursed begged him to at least sit down.
"Broken, and 39 stitches." He said, he almost sounded proud. "And, I know who our spy is." He grinned slyly. "There are only a handful of people who know about the Super Human. There's me, you, my two other buddies, Sycamore, and Sycamore's colleague: Birch. He also goes by Redwood. at the DR anyway."
"But how do you know it's him?"
"Your buddy was babbling about a Redwood when he was out. I knew it had to be him 'cause Birch is the only scientist I know that'll beat the shit out of any guy that doesn't agree with him. He used to beat on Sycamore until one day he fought back. Man, that old man is not what he seems I can tell you that."
$$$$$
Mewtwo stared at Sheba's lifeless body. She'd just been pronounced dead. Sycamore watched from afar. He wanted to help the pokemon, but he didn't know how. He watched as Mewtwo picked up her hand and scowled. He practically knew what was going on inside his head. There was no doubt he was wondering why this had happened. He only hoped that the pokemon didn't turn on him. Without even thinking he went to Mewtwo's side and put his hand on the bony shoulder. Mewtwo turned his head and looked at him.
"I'm so sorry. I wish I could have saved her. and I probably could have if I had the equipment. I hate all of this just as much as you do. believe it or not I'm just as much a slave as you are."
Both of them turned when they heard the door open. It was Mark. In a few moments he was sprinting toward them. He surveyed the scene. Sheba on a table, her stomach half open; Mewtwo looking very grave and not well; and Sycamore looking disappointed and distressed. Mark closed his eyes.
"No."
He snatched up Sheba's hand and closed his eyes tight.
"Mark! Don't do it! That necklace will destroy you!" Sycamore yelled. He backed away when a bright green light exploded from Mark's body and filled the room. Not long after there was a small explosion and the light ceased. Mark was thrown against a wall and slid down until he landed on the ground.
Idiot. I already tried that. wasting his life for nothing.
Sycamore picked him up. "He's. sleeping? But. he should be dead." He shook him.
"Wha?" Mark woke up and held his head. "Uhhhhn. my head. what happened?"
"Amazing." Sycamore looked Mark in the eyes.
Mark blinked. "You're scaring me."
Sycamore put him down. "You tried to bring Sheba back to life, but your necklace disagreed."
Mark rubbed the back of his head and stared at Sheba. "Did the babies live?"
"Three have so far, but it looks like only one will make it."
Mark looked somewhat dazed and went to Mewtwo. "I can't say I feel your pain, but she was a great loss to me to. I'm going to leave now because I'm sure neither of you want to deal with a hysterical teenager. Good luck Sycamore. I don't even want to know what happens when my dad finds out."
$$$$$
Avalon went into the bedroom. Mark was already in his bed. Avalon sat on his own bed and stared at Mark. It was quite unusual for him to just go to bed without waiting for him.
"Mark? Are you awake?"
"Yes, unfortunately." He croaked, apparently he was still crying.
Avalon got his p.j.'s on (a.k.a. just boxers) and sat on Mark's bed. "What's the matter kiddo?"
"Sheba died. Sabrina's parents died. Vynan's about to die. it's too much for me. I'm failing everyone."
Avalon got in bed with Mark. "You're not failing anyone. You can't be everywhere at once and you're only a kid. None of this is your fault. You just do what you can and do it well." He said pulling him close. He wiped away Mark's tears. Mark sniffed and laid his head on Avalon's chest. He knew he was probably giving Avalon the wrong idea, but at this point he didn't care.
Mark jumped when Avalon's cold hand made it's way inside his shirt and touched his back. His shirt suddenly disappeared and reappeared on a chair. Avalon pressed closer to him and stroked his hair. Mark played along. Sabrina was too good for him anyway. He had never been there for her when she needed him most. She was a law-abiding citizen and a thriving Gym leader, not to mention a better psychic than he would ever be. And what was he? The son of the big cohune of Team Rocket, or city scum lower than dirt. Wasn't this what he deserved? Sheba was dead because of him. If he hadn't told Mewtwo his clones were being held at Team Rocket, Mewtwo might still be free and Sheba would still be alive. Because of his friendship with Mikial and Vynan they had stayed in Saffron and now Vynan was practically dead. Why shouldn't his own partner screw him?
$$$$$
They had removed the body. I'd never see her, feel her, or smell her again. Never was I to hear her voice again. All that was left of her were three small, wriggling, and helpless bodies. Only one of which was to live.
He let me hold her. It was a she, I knew. Her skin was so silky and smooth. Her tiny hand grasped my finger, not even fitting halfway around. It was amazing. I had helped create this creature I held in my arms. It was part of me. It was mine. I couldn't help but smile, something I didn't think I could do if I tried. But then, she began to cry. How could such small shrill cries damage one so badly?
Sycamore gave me a bottle full of a warm white liquid; it had a strange rubbery tip. He showed me what it was for by putting it to her mouth. She took hold of it and suckled hungrily.
"There you go." He said softly and left me alone with her.
When she was finished she yawned and snuggled into my arm. Her breathing slowed and she slept soundly in my arms.
$$$$$
I woke to the sound of someone breathing in my ear. I was lying against something warm. Had Mark come back? Mikial said he'd gone to help out his friend.
I slowly got up and opened my eyes. However, it was not Mark in bed with me. no, it was Mikial. Without thinking, I slapped him. He woke with a start.
"What the heck was that for?" He said rather sleepily.
"Are you totally ignorant of what goes on this house?"
"What's that supposed to mean?" He asked rubbing his cheek
"I like Mark, not you. I thought you would have realized that by now and backed off."
Mikial looked elsewhere. "I knew you liked him."
"Then why didn't you leave me alone?" I gritted my teeth getting annoyed.
"Because I thought I could change your mind. He's never here for you anyway. Tell me, what kind of boyfriend is never there for a girl when she needs him?"
I was silent. He WAS right. Mark wasn't here nearly as long as I would have liked. He wasn't even here when I had found out about my parents. I shook my head.
"He would have been here if he could have."
Mikial sighed. "Okay." He left.
$$$$$
I closed my eyes and let myself begin crying again. Avalon stroked my back and ruffled my hair.
"You're crying again." He whispered.
I sniffed.
"It'll all be right in the end."
I wiped my face on his chest. "Maybe if this was a movie. nothing goes the way you want it to in real life, Avi."
I could tell he was smiling. "Nobody has ever called me Avi before." He pulled me on top of him and forced me to look him in the eyes. "Such pain and grief in those beautiful green eyes of yours." He traced my jaw with his hand and brushed my hair back. "I know this isn't a fairy tale. but all is not lost. You can at least still save your friend back at the DR."
"But."
Avalon covered my mouth. "Trust me, Mark."
I nodded.
He took his hand off my mouth, took my chin in his and kissed me. Not just a little "touching of the lips" thing. It was an ACTUAL kiss. Not only was it a passionate kiss, it was diversion to get my pants off.
"Avalon." I breathed when he released. "You said."
He rolled over so he was on top of me. "What did I say?"
"You." I reached up and touched his long black hair. "Nuh.Never mind."
"What are you thinking about? You suddenly got distant there."
I stared up at his dark eyes. "Your hair. it's so much like. Sabrina's." I closed my eyes and turned my head away from him. "I don't deserve her. but. I just can't stop thinking about her."
Avalon sighed and settled his full weight on me. "I know what you mean." He rested his head on my chest and closed his eyes. It was silent for a while. "Your heart is racing."
$$$$$
I sat still and watched her sleep the entire time. When she woke she was hungry again. Sycamore got another bottle. I began to feed her again and Sycamore watched in silence.
Her name is Aiji. I half smiled.
Sycamore jumped. "Wha-what did you say?"
Her name is Aiji. beloved child.
Sycamore smiled. "Beautiful. just. beautiful."
$$$$$
Would he really come back? Could I really trust him? He was a member of Team Rocket after all. No, I can't think like this. Mark had gotten them away from ill-minded people before. his own Team Rocket too. He had practically risked his life doing that. Mark would come for him. (lol! Sorry Vynan, "Wesley" (a.k.a. Mark) is busy with his other princess right now! Hee hee. ever see Princess Bride?)
$$$$$
"Ah. Avi. please! Don't do this."
Avalon looked down at me. "But. but why?"
I started to cry yet again. Why can't anything go right for me? "You. you said you wouldn't touch me. and. well. (gasp, sniff) look at you!"
Avalon sat up and looked about himself, and then closed his eyes and turned away embarrassed. "You. you're right." He crossed his arms and his face turned red with humility. He got off of me and gave me my pants back.
"Forgive me, Mark. I usually remember my promises. in fact, I believe this is the first time I've forgotten." He started shaking and a tear fell from his eye and rolled down his flushed cheek. He drew in a long shaky breath and crawled miserably into his own bed. I heard him hiccup a few times.
"I. I forgive you Avalon. please. don't cry." I quickly put my pants on and stumbled over to his bed.
"I just. couldn't stand that pain in your eyes.(hic). I had to do something. but. I went too far.(hic). I knew the second I got into that bed I shouldn't have. I ignored it. (hic). thank you for stopping me. otherwise. (hic). I would have done something I'd regret later."
I leaned over and hugged him.
"There's something else I need to tell you." He said. "Domino broke up with me the other day."
I let go of him.
"I knew it was bound to happen sooner or later. I was trying not to let it get to me. but I think that's where some of that came from."
$$$$$
Avalon wasn't very talkative the next morning. I was called down to my dad's office bright and early anyway.
"So, Mark, how do you like working with Rowan?"
Geeze, he couldn't have asked a better question. I thought. "It's been. interesting, so far."
"Really?" He sat back in his chair and sipped his wine.
I nodded.
He looked at his computer screen. "It's about time we got rid of Old Birch. He'd been under my suspicions from the get go. Now, about that necklace."